Dialog (Modal) Pattern. A question of modality and focus management

[LaurenceRLewis]

I am seeking guidance to understand the tab ring behaviour for non-modal dialogs that use aria-modal false. This is specifically in reference to the ARIA Practices Guide for Dialog (Modal).

"Like non-modal dialogs, modal dialogs contain their tab sequence. That is, Tab and Shift + Tab do not move focus outside the dialog. However, unlike most non-modal dialogs, modal dialogs do not provide means for moving keyboard focus outside the dialog window without closing the dialog."

If I remove the references to modal I get.

'non-modal dialogs contain their tab sequence and do not move focus outside the dialog. Provide a means for moving keyboard focus outside the dialog window without closing the dialog.'

• For a non-modal dialog, for example an information sheet, that is non-critical, how should this work?
• What recommended practices are there for the keyboard user to interact with the main screen without dismissing the modal? Would being able to minimise the dialog be an accepted means to enable access to the main page content?
• Would a button that the user can click to move to the main page content be sufficient?
• What is the recommendation for focus management when the user is focused on the main content, and how do they return to the dialog?
• Is the only way to access the dialog content clicking the triggering button?

I have these questions swirling around in my head and seek clarity in what recommendations to make in regard to accessibility for a non-modal dialog for focus management and expected behaviour.

[LaurenceRLewis]

Related to Keyboard method to jump out of NON-modal dialogs? #599